Not Even Pop Stars Are Immune to Accidental Death and Other Fentanyl Side Effects

You might receive a prescription for fentanyl after undergoing surgery or for acute pain. You may know the substance under the names Duragesic or Actiq. But what are the fentanyl side effects? And why do even rich, famous pop stars succumb to these types of drugs?

What is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is an opioid painkiller. It’s far stronger than morphine. It’s more potent than heroin. And it’s something you shouldn’t be getting outside a hospital setting.

However, sometimes, people can get fentanyl in different ways. In the case of celebrities such as Michael Jackson, acquiescent doctors could provide medications that weren’t suitable for in-home use. The artist known as Prince had fentanyl in his home, but the pills carried a hydrocodone label. He may have been unaware what he was actually taking.

On the street, fentanyl becomes a hot commodity. But, because the pills come from illegal manufacturing operations, purity varies greatly. Some pills contain so much of the substance that they’ll quickly kill you. Others may have only enough to make you sick.

What are Typical Fentanyl Side Effects?

It’s important to remember that doctors should prescribe the drug only in the most severe circumstances. As a result, they accept some fentanyl side effects because treatment benefits the patient. Examples include hallucinations, nervous system problems, and temporary breathing cessation.

Some of the less serious problems include dizziness and anxiety. You may encounter false sensations of being cold, hot, pain-free, or strong. Although it’s not typical, some individuals suffer from paranoia or chest pain. Many doctors prefer to prescribe the drug only to patients who’ve already built up a tolerance to other opioids.–it’s that strong.

What Kills You?

It’s easy to overdose with fentanyl. You might buy it on the black market with an unknown purity. Others get heroin with the drug mixed in. What happens during an overdose is the gradual relaxation of your breathing abilities.

You no longer take in sufficient oxygen. You slowly die. Because the process happens gradually, you may not realize the danger you’re in until it’s too late. Conversely, it can come on so quickly that you collapse before you can call for help.

Are You Worried a Loved One May Overdose?

Look for obvious fentanyl side effects such as labored breathing. Your loved one will be dizzy and unable to swallow, speak, or inhale deeply. She or he shows signs of confusion and may suddenly pass out. Don’t wait to call for help. It’s possible to counteract the process with a quick injection of a reversal drug.

If you have a fentanyl addiction, or you suspect that your loved one does, you need to get help. The dependence on the drug won’t go away by itself, and the next dose may be fatal. At Beaches Recovery, therapists help you to overcome the cravings with treatments such as: